Applying to the Roll of Solicitors in England and Wales

Introduction

Once you have passed both parts of the SQE and completed your two years of qualifying work experience (QWE), the final step is applying to the Roll of Solicitors via the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). The admission process is handled through your mySRA account and includes pre-admission screening and a character and suitability assessment. Most applications are processed in around 30 days, though some take longer depending on your circumstances.

This guide explains what the SRA will check, how to complete each stage, what to expect on admission day, when you need a practising certificate, and how continuing competence works after you qualify.

What You'll Learn

• How to apply for admission through mySRA
• What pre-admission screening involves (DBS or overseas equivalent)
• The character and suitability checks the SRA carries out
• Evidence required for SQE, degree/equivalent, and QWE
• Typical processing times and common reasons for delay
• What happens on admission day and how a practising certificate fits in
• Language requirements if you were exempt from SQE2
• Continuing competence expectations after qualification

Core Concepts

Eligibility and required evidence

When you submit your admission application, the SRA will confirm you meet the qualification requirements (subject to any exemptions you hold). You will need to satisfy the SRA that:

• You have passed the SQE assessments (SQE1 and SQE2)
• You hold a degree or qualifications/experience the SRA accepts as equivalent
• You have completed two years of QWE
• You meet the SRA’s character and suitability requirements

Evidence is usually verified through records already held by the SRA (for example, SQE results and QWE confirmations recorded in mySRA). Where something is missing or unclear, the SRA may ask you to upload further documents.

Note: If you think you qualify for any exemptions (for example, as a qualified lawyer), ensure these are assessed and recorded before you apply for admission.

Pre-admission screening

Before you can be admitted, you must complete pre-admission screening through mySRA. This typically includes:

• A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check for those in the UK
• An overseas criminal record check (or local equivalent) for those who have lived or are living outside the UK

Practical points:

• Overseas checks often take longer and may need official translations. Build in extra time.
• You will usually need proof of identity and recent proof of address.
• Complete screening early so it does not hold up your admission date.

Character and suitability assessment

The SRA assesses whether you are fit to be admitted, in order to protect the public and maintain trust and confidence in legal services. The assessment looks at:

• General character, including any violent, dishonest or discriminatory conduct
• Criminal behaviour (including cautions and convictions)
• Aggravating and mitigating factors relevant to any issues
• Any misuse of position (for example, abusing a role for personal gain)
• Other integrity and reliability concerns (such as academic or financial dishonesty)

If you are worried that something in your history may affect your application, consider asking the SRA for an early character and suitability check before you invest time and money in the SQE. The SRA’s website explains the criteria and how to make an early application.

Being open and consistent in your declarations is important. Provide full details and supporting documents where requested, including explanations, evidence of rehabilitation where appropriate, and references if available.

Admission application and timelines

You apply for admission through mySRA after completing pre-admission screening. The application includes:

• Confirming your SQE status, degree/equivalent, and QWE
• Making declarations for the character and suitability assessment
• Paying the relevant fees

Timing:

• The SRA typically takes about 30 days to assess complete applications.
• Processing can take longer if you disclose character or suitability matters, require an overseas criminal record check, or your QWE needs independent review.
• Keep an eye on messages in mySRA; prompt responses to SRA queries help avoid delays.

Language competence if exempt from SQE2

If you were granted an exemption from SQE2, you will be asked to demonstrate English or Welsh language competence before admission and before applying for your first practising certificate. Prepare early for any language evidence or testing the SRA may require.

Key Examples or Case Studies

Example 1: Standard UK-based applicant

• Profile: UK law graduate, SQE1 and SQE2 passed, full two years of QWE recorded in mySRA, no disclosures.
• Process: Completes DBS screening and admission application the same week.
• Outcome: Decision returned in around 30 days. Admission date confirmed promptly.

Example 2: Applicant with overseas history

• Profile: Lived abroad for several years during QWE. No disclosures.
• Process: Orders overseas criminal record certificate and certified translation; uploads via mySRA.
• Outcome: Overseas checks add several weeks. Total timeline extends to 6–8 weeks.

Example 3: Disclosure of a past caution

• Profile: Discloses a non-violent caution from several years ago.
• Process: Provides complete details, evidence of circumstances, and character references.
• Outcome: SRA seeks further information. Assessment takes longer than 30 days. Application still successful due to openness, time elapsed, and mitigating factors.

Example 4: QWE confirmation needed

• Profile: QWE logged across three organisations; one supervisor has moved on.
• Process: SRA requests clarification. Applicant obtains a statement from the firm and updates contact details for confirmation.
• Outcome: Modest delay while records are verified. Admission achieved after checks complete.

Practical Applications

• Before you apply

  • Make sure your SQE results and QWE records are visible and correct in mySRA.
  • Gather your ID, proof of address, and any documents needed for screening.
  • If you have lived overseas, start your overseas criminal record check early.
  • Review the SRA character and suitability guidance; seek an early check if unsure.

• Completing pre-admission screening

  • Use the mySRA link to start screening.
  • For UK checks, follow DBS instructions exactly; for overseas checks, follow local guidance and arrange translations where needed.
  • Keep copies of all certificates and receipts.

• Submitting your admission application

  • Double-check all declarations and dates.
  • Upload any requested evidence in clear, legible form.
  • Pay the fee and note your application reference.

• Managing timelines and communications

  • Expect around 30 days for straightforward cases.
  • Respond quickly to any SRA queries in mySRA.
  • If you plan a specific admission date, allow a buffer in case extra checks are needed.

• Admission day and practising certificate

  • Once approved, you will be asked to choose a preferred admission date.
  • The SRA will issue a certificate of satisfaction confirming admission on that date.
  • To work as a solicitor, apply for a practising certificate after admission. The SRA may place conditions in certain circumstances.

• Language competence if exempt from SQE2

  • Prepare any required language evidence early.
  • Complete language checks before admission and before applying for your first practising certificate.

• After qualification: continuing competence

  • There is no CPD hours requirement.
  • You must reflect on your work, identify learning needs, and take steps to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.
  • Keep a short record of learning and reflection in case your firm or the SRA asks for it.

Summary Checklist

• SQE passed (both parts) or exemptions recorded
• Degree or accepted equivalent confirmed with the SRA
• Two years of QWE recorded and confirmed in mySRA
• Pre-admission screening completed (DBS or overseas check)
• Character and suitability declarations complete and accurate
• Any disclosures supported by clear evidence and explanations
• Admission application submitted with fee paid
• Preferred admission date selected once approved
• Practising certificate application ready post-admission
• Language competence evidence prepared if exempt from SQE2
• Ongoing plan for continuing competence in place

Quick Reference

For the latest forms, fees, and rules, always refer to the SRA website and your mySRA account.